April 29, 2011
Washington, D.C.

Workshop Agenda

Session 1: Overview of U.S., Japan and UN Approaches to Peacebuilding

This provided an overview of U.S, Japanese, and UN roles in international peacebuilding, describing how each state or institution prioritizes its respective goals and objectives in peacebuilding operations. Presenters assessed how the United States and Japan implement a “whole-of-government” or interagency strategy for peacebuilding operations. What are the strengths and weaknesses that each ally brings to peacebuilding initiatives and how can the UN maximize the contributions of these two nations in post-conflict reconstruction and stabilization efforts?

US Perspective: Mr. Weston S. Konishi, IFPA
Japanese Perspective: Dr. Toshiya Hoshino, Osaka University
UN Perspective: Dr. Philip Shetler-Jones, UN Department of PKO
Discussant: Dr. Richard Ponzio, U.S. Department of State

Session 2: U.S. and Japan Peacebuilding: Afghanistan Case Study

This session examined U.S. and Japanese peacebuilding initiatives in Afghanistan, assessing the priorities of each ally and their strengths and weaknesses in carrying out their respective missions. Following the two presentations, an open discussion examined how both allies can better combine their resources and assets in rebuilding Afghanistan.

U.S. Perspective: Mr. Jason Fritz, Independent Consultant
Japanese Perspective: Dr. Yuji Uesugi, Hiroshima University
Discussant: Dr. Kuniko Ashizawa, SAIS/Oxford Brooks University

Session 3: U.S. and Japan Peacebuilding: Sudan Case Study   

Following the January referendum, Southern Sudan is likely to become an independent state in the summer of 2011. The birth of a new state from the ravages of a war-torn region is likely to pose unique challenges for the international community and key stakeholders such as the United States and Japan. This session assessed potential peacebuilding missions in Southern Sudan in order to ensure that it becomes a viable nation-state and that peace and order are maintained.

U.S. Perspective: Mr. Jason Matus, AECOM International Development
Japanese Perspective: Dr. Yasuhito Murakami, Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Discussant: Dr. Yuji Uesugi

Session 4: Wrap-up Session: Toward “Whole of Alliance” Peacebuilding

This session was a moderated open discussion that provided participants with an opportunity to make additional comments or suggestions based on the previous sessions. The group also discussed how the United States and Japan should move forward on peacebuilding cooperation in order to realize a “whole-of-alliance approach to post-conflict stabilization and reconstruction missions. Lastly, participants discussed potential next steps in the project and what follow-up steps could be taken to build on the results of the day’s workshop discussions.

Moderators: Dr. Toshiya Hoshino and Mr. Weston Konishi